Diligently search the Scriptures, because you think that by them you possess eternal life. These are the Scriptures that testify about Me.
John's Gospel, Chapter 5 verse 39NIV
An investigation either enjoined or indicated
- Who spoke these words?
The Lord Jesus
- To whom where they spoken?
To the Jews (verse 16)
- What is meant by the Scriptures?
What is now known as 'The Old Testament', God's revelation to the Jews.
- What does the use of the word "Scripture" teach us concerning the word of God?
It teaches us that God's Word has been written for our learning.
Why to Search
- What does the Lord Jesus say concerning the Jews and the Old Testament?
He says that the Jews searched the Scriptures.
- What does this fact show?
That it was regarded a duty to read the Scriptures.
- Why did the Jews search the Scriptures?
To obtain eternal life.
- What is the meaning of the word "search"?
To examine diligently or minutely.
- What is meant by "because you think that by them you possess eternal life"?
The Jews were content with the mere knowledge of Scripture and did not think anything more was necessary.
- What idea does our Lord condemn with these words?
The idea that it is enough to know God's Word.
- What else is needed?
A knowledge of God Himself as revealed in His Word.
- What does this teach us concerning the Scriptures?
They must be brought home to the heart by the Holy Spirit.
The testimony of the Scriptures to Christ.
- What does our Lord say concerning the witness of Scripture?
"They testify about Me"
- What does "testify" mean?
To bear witness.
- What does this tell us about the Old Testament?
That the person and work of Christ are foretold in it.
- How is the work of our Lord Jesus Christ foretold in the Old Testament?
In prophecy and in type.
- What great lesson does our text teach?
To use God's Word but not to rest until it leads us to the person of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Text Nine
Adapted from:
"The one hundred texts of the society for Irish Church Missions."
T.C. Hammond, Dublin. 1939